Located in downtown Overland Park, Taste is quaint, charming and delicious. In my opinion, chef and owner Jonathon Dallen has created the perfect menu. This location used to be the bar and dining room called Tonic, where young chef Jonathon Dallen ran the kitchen. After Tonic closed, Dallen took over the whole operation.
The name “Taste” is fitting for this establishment, as the front page of the menu contains a list of “First Tastes” which is a collection of small plates. The variety of these small plates is perfect for the diner that likes variety. The option to order two or three small plates and get a little “taste” of everything they may be craving is something that is right up my alley.
I have been twice now and although there is another page on the menu dedicated to entrées that include Grilled Salmon, Roasted Chicken and Beef Tenderloin, I cannot seem to stray from the small plates. I love the variety and the concept of sharing that the small plates offer.
On my most recent visit, it was just my husband and I and the dishes we shared were the Appetizer Plate, ($8.00) which has a selections dips that include hummus, an olive tapenade, a goat cheese spread and a white bean salad with crostinis for dipping. 
We also ordered the Cheese Tasting Plate ($10.00) and the Seared Lamb Loin with roasted corn polenta. ($14.00) It was a great selection of plates and very filling. The cheese plate comes with both foreign and domestic varieties and is exquisitely put together. All the dips were delicious and the lamb was tender.
Taste is a place that will fit your mood. If you are feeling adventurous, you can order the Chef Tasting Plate a chef’s choice of weekly specials ($15.00) and if you are feeling generous, you can buy a round of drinks for the kitchen. ($25.00)
If you want a custom menu to create the perfect dining experience, get the Personalized Coursed Chef Tasting for the entire table where the chef will design a menu specifically for your party. (Market Price) Taste can also cater any occasion.
In addition to dinner, Taste also offers a lunch menu including a selection of sliders to pick from as well as other sandwiches and salads. Dessert is just as diverse as the rest of the menu when it comes to variety. You can choose from a cookie, gelato or chocolate tasting plate to seasonal cobbler with homemade gelato. Both times I have gone I have been too full for dessert, so I have decided for my next visit that is all I am going for!
With a bar area, dining room and patio, there is plenty of space to enjoy your “tastes.” The weather was perfect the night we visited so we opted to sit on the patio. The building consists of original brick and the atmosphere is relaxing. In the evenings candle lit tables light up the space.
With its diverse menu and dining options, Taste is a great place to go for any occasion whether it is a romantic date or a large party.
Prices ranges for Taste are as follows:
Lunch ($8.00 – $14.00)
First Tastes ($6.00 -$14.00)
Entrées ($14.00 – $32.00)
Desserts ($6.00 – $10.00)
7938 Santa Fe Drive Overland Park, KS 66204.
(913) 766-0320
If you have a great food find, restaurant or event in Kansas City you think I am missing, email me.
In Good Taste,
Sharm